Russian President Vladimir Putin isn’t exactly known for being warm, compassionate and cuddly. Even so, it’s shockingly disappointing that Putin has initiated a slew of measures designed to punish anyone in Russia who is homosexual, or merely in favor of gay rights. We’re pretty sure that you can’t eradicate homosexuality just by banning so-called gay “propaganda.” But on the off-chance it works, maybe Putin can try passing some laws that would make it illegal to be a close-minded, ignorant hate-monger.

Fast-food employees across the county are walking off the job this week to protest their lousy pay, though it doesn’t seem likely their demands for more money will be met. Which makes sense: Fast-food chains have many more important priorities than paying employees a living wage.

When asked by a reporter recently what he’d do if he found out a priest was gay, Pope Francisanswered, “Who am I to judge?” The Pontiff’s refreshing non-condemning tone was welcomed by many and may have set the stage for the Holy Father to do further outreach to the gay community.